Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice delivered a historic performance by scoring two stunning free-kicks in a 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final. Before this match, Rice had never scored from a free-kick in his career. In just one night at the Emirates Stadium, he netted two – becoming the first player to do so in a Champions League knockout game.

His first goal came in the 58th minute, bending the ball past Thibaut Courtois, followed by an even more impressive strike 12 minutes later into the top corner. Despite the set-piece coach signaling for a cross, Rice trusted his instincts and went for goal both times.

Manager Mikel Arteta and teammates were left stunned, calling it a magical night. Rice admitted the moment hasn’t sunk in yet, saying, “It’s a historic night.”

The performance has drawn praise from football legends like Alan Shearer and Clarence Seedorf, with Arteta acknowledging Rice’s technical brilliance. The second leg will be held at the Bernabeu on April 16, where Arsenal will need to maintain focus against a team known for dramatic comebacks. Despite the lead, Rice emphasized caution, saying, “Special things happen at the Bernabeu.”